People capture suckermouth catfish during an operation targeting invasive species in a river in Jakarta, Indonesia, May 5, 2026. Photo by Xinhua/Agung Kuncahya B.
JAKARTA — Indonesia’s largest city, Jakarta, is stepping up efforts to control the invasive suckerfish amid concerns over its impact on river ecosystems and potential health risks.
The Jakarta Food Security, Marine Affairs and Agriculture Agency aims to reduce the species’ population in the capital’s public waters to 20 percent within two years through mass fishing operations, local media reported Saturday.
The agency said the fish currently accounts for an estimated 60 to 80 percent of fish populations in some Jakarta waters, threatening native species and damaging embankments.
Studies have also raised concerns that suckerfish from polluted rivers may contain heavy metals, making them unsafe for consumption.
Jakarta authorities said coordinated fishing operations and public awareness campaigns will continue to curb the species’ spread.